It’s not clear, though, if Senate Bill 5738 will get a hearing. Senate Republicans control the Senate and have made it clear they’re opposed to any new taxes, outside of a potential gas-tax increase for transportation.

Murray floated the idea last month, and introduced the bill Wednesday.

The capital-gains tax Murray proposes would exclude the sale of a principal residence, as well as the first $10,000 in gains for individuals and the first $20,000 for married couples. His proposal also would extend beer, and business-and-occupation tax surcharges – due to expire next year – until the end of 2015.

The proposal is projected to raise $540 million for education during the next two fiscal years. Murray’s bill would send the money toward specific programs, including all-day kindergarten, class-size reductions in early grades and higher education enrollment.

About this blog

Politics Northwest is the go-to blog for politics in our region. The blog explores national, state and local political news and issues. Reporters from Washington, D.C., to Seattle City Hall to the state capital in Olympia contribute. Editors are Richard Wagoner and Beth Kaiman.